Peterborough’s Cancer Wellbeing Service to reopen

Almost six months after the centre closed its doors, the Cancer Wellbeing Service will be welcoming patients back through its doors from September 1.

From the start of September patients and families of those impacted by cancer will be able to access the service’s facilities, however only a reduced service will be on offer to prioritise the safety of those accessing the service.

The Cancer Wellbeing Service, located in the Robert Horrell Macmillan Centre at Peterborough City Hospital, offers support and advice to patients and those who have been affected by cancer with a range of workshops, courses and support groups.

In March as the risks of Covid-19 were becoming clearer the decision was made to close to reduce the risk to patients. Due to the service’s doors being closed a number of staff were redeployed to support other teams across Peterborough City Hospital, helping with the Trust’s response to the pandemic.

Despite the challenges of Covid-19 the service has continued to support people with one-to-one phone calls to provide emotional support. They have also created new virtual courses, ensured the centre is safe for reopening - adhering to Trust and National Guidelines surrounding Covid-19 - and also focused time on making improvements to the garden enabling the team to run more sessions outdoors, and installing a new kitchen.

Lisa Deacon, Joint Service Manager, for the Cancer Wellbeing Service: “It has been an incredibly difficult time for those receiving new cancer diagnoses, or undergoing cancer treatment.

“Our clients’ haven’t been able to access the same support we would usually provide in a pre-Covid-19 world, however we have worked tirelessly to ensure we continue to support those affected by cancer both online and over the telephone.

“We are really looking forward to being able to provide a wider range of support again, and to be able to offer this in the welcoming and warm environment at the Cancer Wellbeing Service.”

“To find out more about the services that are offered at the Cancer Wellbeing Centre please go to the Trust website www.nwangliaft.nhs.uk”